U.S. patent application number 13/255538 was filed with the patent office on 2012-01-05 for vehicle vent valve assembly.
Invention is credited to Michael J. Andrews, Daniel D. Carlson.
Application Number | 20120003907 13/255538 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 42729138 |
Filed Date | 2012-01-05 |
United States Patent
Application |
20120003907 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Carlson; Daniel D. ; et
al. |
January 5, 2012 |
VEHICLE VENT VALVE ASSEMBLY
Abstract
A vehicle vent valve assembly (30) is provided to prevent
excessive air pressure in a passenger compartment (52) of a vehicle
(36). The vent valve assembly (30) includes a vent valve (32) which
is movable between a closed condition blocking fluid (air) flow
from a passenger compartment of the vehicle and an open condition.
An actuator assembly (34) is provided to operate the vent valve
(32) from the closed condition to the open condition. The vent
valve (32) is urged toward the closed condition by a closing spring
(112). A damper (132) is connected with the vent valve (32) to
delay closing of the vent valve. A force transmitting member (64)
in the actuator assembly (34) is connected with the vent valve (32)
by a slide connection (94) that enables relative movement to occur
between the vent valve and the force transmitting member.
Inventors: |
Carlson; Daniel D.; (Fenton,
MI) ; Andrews; Michael J.; (Plymouth, MI) |
Family ID: |
42729138 |
Appl. No.: |
13/255538 |
Filed: |
March 12, 2010 |
PCT Filed: |
March 12, 2010 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/US2010/027168 |
371 Date: |
September 9, 2011 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
61210120 |
Mar 13, 2009 |
|
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|
Current U.S.
Class: |
454/70 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B60H 1/248 20130101;
F16K 15/03 20130101; F16K 1/465 20130101; F16K 24/04 20130101; B60H
1/00835 20130101; B60H 1/00735 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
454/70 |
International
Class: |
B60H 1/00 20060101
B60H001/00 |
Claims
1. An apparatus which prevents objectionable increases in air
pressure in a passenger compartment of a vehicle upon closing of a
door of the vehicle, said apparatus comprising: a vent valve which
is movable between a closed condition blocking air flow through a
vent opening and an open condition enabling air to flow through the
vent opening; a door position sensor assembly which is operable
from a first condition to a second condition in response to
movement of the door of the vehicle from a closed position to an
open position, said door position sensor assembly being operable
from the second condition to the first condition in response to
movement of the door of the vehicle from the open position to the
closed position; and an actuator assembly which is connected with
said door position sensor assembly and said vent valve, said
actuator assembly being operable to operate said vent valve from
the closed condition to the open condition upon operation of said
door position sensor assembly from the first condition to the
second condition, said actuator assembly being operable to release
said vent valve for movement from the open condition to the closed
condition upon operation of said door position sensor assembly from
the second condition to the first condition.
2. An apparatus as set forth in claim 1 wherein said door position
sensor includes a plunger having a first position when the door is
in the closed position and a second position when the door is in
the open position and a spring biasing said plunger toward the
second position.
3. An apparatus as set forth in claim 2 wherein said plunger
engages the door when the door is in the closed position.
4. An apparatus as set forth in claim 1 wherein said actuator
assembly includes a force transmitting member connected with said
vent valve, said force transmitting member moving from a first
position to a second position upon operation of said door position
sensor assembly from the first condition to the second condition,
said force transmitting member moving said vent valve from the
closed condition to the open condition when said force transmitting
member moves from the first position to the second position.
5. An apparatus as set forth in claim 4 wherein a first end section
of said force transmitting member extends into a slot in said vent
valve to provide a slide connection with said vent valve.
6. An apparatus as set forth in claim 5 wherein a first spring
urges said force transmitting member to move said vent valve to the
open condition.
7. An apparatus as set forth in claim 6 wherein a second spring
urges said vent valve toward the closed condition.
8. An apparatus as set forth in claim 6 wherein said first spring
urges a plunger of said door position sensor assembly toward a
first condition.
9. An apparatus as set forth in claim 4 wherein a solenoid moves
said force transmitting member from the first position to the
second position to move said vent valve from the closed condition
to the open condition upon operation of said door position sensor
assembly from the first condition to the second condition.
10. An apparatus as set forth in claim 9 wherein said door position
sensor assembly includes a switch that closes upon movement of said
door position sensor assembly from the first condition to the
second condition.
11. An apparatus as set forth in claim 4 wherein said force
transmitting member includes first and second portions pivotally
connected to each other.
12. An apparatus as set forth in claim 1 further including a damper
which delays movement of said vent valve from the open condition to
the closed condition for a period of time sufficient to enable air
to be conducted from the passenger compartment of the vehicle after
the vehicle door has closed.
13. An apparatus as set forth in claim 1 wherein said damper
includes first and second portions movable relative to each other,
said first portion being connected with a base and said second
portion being connected with said vent valve, said second portion
moving with said vent valve relative to said first portion and said
base during movement of said vent valve relative to said base.
14. An apparatus as set forth in claim 13 wherein a friction member
engages said first and second portions of said damper to resist
relative movement between said first and second portions.
15. An apparatus as set forth in claim 14 wherein said first
portion extends into an opening in said second portion, said first
and second portions being coaxial and rotating relative to each
other when said vent valve moves between the closed condition and
the open condition.
16. An apparatus as set forth in claim 15 wherein said first and
second portions are coaxial with a hinge of said vent valve.
17. An apparatus as set forth in claim 16 wherein an O-ring engages
said first and second portions to resist relative rotation between
said first and second portions.
18. An apparatus as set forth in claim 13 wherein said first
portion is a shaft rotatable with said vent valve relative to said
base, said second portion extending from said base into engagement
with said shaft.
19. An apparatus as set forth in claim 1 wherein one of said vent
valve and a base includes a magnet and the other of said vent valve
and said base includes a magnetic material, said magnet applying a
magnetic force to said magnetic material to move said vent valve
relative to said base toward the closed condition.
20. An apparatus as set forth in claim 1 wherein a spring urges
said vent valve toward the closed condition, said spring having a
first portion engaging the vent valve and a second portion engaging
a base.
21. An apparatus as set forth in claim 20 wherein said spring is a
leaf spring.
22. An apparatus as set forth in claim 21 wherein said vent valve
has pins extending through openings in the leaf spring.
23. An apparatus as set forth in claim 20 wherein said first
portion of said spring extends into a recess in said vent
valve.
24. An apparatus which prevents objectionable increases in air
pressure in a passenger compartment of a vehicle upon closing of a
door of the vehicle, said apparatus comprising: a vent valve which
is movable between a closed condition blocking air flow through a
vent opening and an open condition enabling air to flow through the
vent opening; and a damper which delays movement of said vent valve
from the open condition to the closed condition for a period of
time sufficient to enable air to be conducted from the passenger
compartment of the vehicle after the vehicle door has closed.
25. An apparatus as set forth in claim 24 wherein said damper
includes first and second portions movable relative to each
other,
26. An apparatus as set forth in claim 25 wherein said first
portion is connected with a base and said second portion is
connected with said vent valve, said second portion moving with
said vent valve relative to said first portion and said base during
movement of said vent valve relative to said base.
27. An apparatus as set forth in claim 25 wherein a friction member
engages said first and second portions of said damper to resist
relative movement between said first and second portions.
28. An apparatus as set forth in claim 25 wherein said first
portion extends into an opening in said second portion, said first
and second portions being coaxial and rotating relative to each
other when said vent valve moves between the closed condition and
the open condition.
29. An apparatus as set forth in claim 28 wherein said first and
second portions are coaxial with a hinge of said vent valve.
30. An apparatus as set forth in claim 28 wherein an O-ring engages
said first and second portions to resist relative rotation between
said first and second portions.
31. An apparatus as set forth in claim 25 wherein said first
portion is a shaft rotatable with said vent valve relative to said
base, said second portion extending from said base into engagement
with said shaft.
32. An apparatus as set forth in claim 25 wherein a door position
sensor assembly is operable from a first condition to a second
condition in response to movement of the door of the vehicle from a
closed position to an open position, said door position sensor
assembly being operable from the second condition to the first
condition in response to movement of the door of the vehicle from
the open position to the closed position; and an actuator assembly
being connected with said door position sensor assembly and said
vent valve, said actuator assembly being operable to operate said
vent valve from the closed condition to the open condition upon
operation of said door position sensor assembly from the first
condition to the second condition, said actuator assembly being
operable to release said vent valve for movement from the open
condition to the closed condition upon operation of said door
position sensor assembly from the second condition to the first
condition, said actuator assembly including a force transmitting
member connected with said vent valve, said force transmitting
member moving from a first position to a second position upon
operation of said door position sensor assembly from the first
condition to the second condition, said force transmitting member
moving said vent valve from the closed condition to the open
condition when said force transmitting member moves from the first
position to the second position.
33. An apparatus as set forth in claim 32 wherein a first end
section of said force transmitting member extends into a slot in
said vent valve to provide a slide connection with said vent
valve.
34. An apparatus as set forth in claim 33 wherein a first spring
urges said force transmitting member to move said vent valve to the
open condition.
35. An apparatus as set forth in claim 34 wherein a second spring
urges said vent valve toward the closed condition.
36. An apparatus as set forth in claim 34 wherein said first spring
urges a plunger of the door position sensor assembly toward a first
condition.
37. An apparatus as set forth in claim 32 wherein a solenoid moves
said force transmitting member from the first position to the
second position to move said vent valve from the closed condition
to the open condition upon operation of said door position sensor
assembly from the first condition to the second condition.
38. An apparatus as set forth in claim 32 wherein said force
transmitting member includes first and second portions pivotally
connected to each other.
39. An apparatus as set forth in claim 32 wherein said door
position sensor includes a plunger having a first position when the
door is in the closed position and having a second position when
the door is in the open position and a spring biasing said plunger
toward the second position.
40. An apparatus as set forth in claim 39 wherein said plunger
engages the door when the door is in the closed position.
41. An apparatus as set forth in claim 24 wherein one of said vent
valve and a base includes a magnet and the other of said vent valve
and said base includes a magnetic material, said magnet applying a
magnetic force to said magnetic material to move said vent valve
toward the closed condition relative to said base.
42. An apparatus as set forth in claim 24 wherein a spring urges
said vent valve toward the closed condition, said spring having a
first portion engaging said vent valve and a second portion
engaging a base.
43. An apparatus as set forth in claim 42 wherein said spring is a
leaf spring.
44. An apparatus as set forth in claim 43 wherein said vent valve
has pins extending through openings in the leaf spring.
45. An apparatus as set forth in claim 42 wherein said first
portion of said spring extends into a recess in the vent valve.
Description
RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application claims priority from U.S. Provisional
Application No. 61/210,120, filed Mar. 13, 2009, the subject matter
of which is incorporated herein by reference.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] The present invention relates to a vent valve which is
utilized to prevent increases in air pressure in a passenger
compartment in a vehicle.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] In the past, pressure relief valves have been provided for
relieving air pressure in a passenger compartment of a vehicle. One
known pressure relief valve is opened when a differential in air
pressure is established between the passenger compartment of the
vehicle and atmosphere. For example, when a vehicle door is slammed
closed, the air pressure within the passenger compartment is likely
to increase suddenly. In response to an increase in air pressure
with closing of a passenger door, the known pressure relief valve
is opened to relieve the pressure within the passenger compartment.
Known pressure relief valves which have been utilized to relieve
pressure in the passenger compartment of a vehicle are disclosed in
U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,182,093 and 7,302,962.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0004] The present invention provides an improved vent valve
assembly which is utilized to prevent occurrence of excessive air
pressure in a passenger compartment of a vehicle. The vent valve
assembly includes a vent valve and an actuator assembly. The
actuator assembly is operable to effect movement of the vent valve
from a closed position to an open position before excessive fluid
pressure can occur in the passenger compartment of the vehicle.
[0005] The actuator assembly may be connected with the vent valve
in a manner which enables relative movement to occur between the
vent valve and the actuator assembly. This enables the vent valve
to remain at least partially open after operation of the actuator
assembly to release the vent valve for closing. A damper may be
provided to delay closing of the vent valve.
[0006] The present invention includes a plurality of features which
may be utilized together as disclosed herein. Alternatively, these
features may be used separately and/or in various combinations with
features from the prior art.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0007] The foregoing and other features of the invention will
become more apparent upon a consideration of the following
description taken in connection with the accompanying drawings
wherein:
[0008] FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of a vent valve assembly
constructed in accordance with the present invention, a vent valve
in the vent valve assembly being illustrated in a closed condition
blocking flow of air from a passenger compartment of a vehicle when
a vehicle door is in a closed position;
[0009] FIG. 2 is a schematic illustration, generally similar to
FIG. 1, illustrating the vent valve assembly in an open condition
in which the vent valve is ineffective to block a flow of air when
the vehicle door is in an open position;
[0010] FIG. 3 is a schematic illustration, generally similar to
FIG. 2, illustrating the vent valve in an open condition and the
vehicle door in the closed position;
[0011] FIG. 4 is a schematic pictorial illustration depicting the
manner in which an actuator assembly, damper, and closing spring
are connected with the vent valve of FIGS. 1-3;
[0012] FIG. 5 is a fragmentary schematic side elevational view,
taken on a reduced scale along the line 5-5 of FIG. 4, further
illustrating the manner in which the vent valve moves between open
and closed conditions;
[0013] FIG. 6 is a fragmentary schematic illustration depicting the
manner in which a force transmitting member is connected with a
biasing spring which urges the force transmitting member in a
direction to move the vent valve to its open condition;
[0014] FIG. 7 is an exploded fragmentary schematic illustration of
the apparatus of FIG. 6;
[0015] FIG. 8 is an exploded schematic pictorial illustration,
generally similar to FIG. 4, illustrating a manner in which the
actuator assembly, damper, and closing spring are connected with
the vent valve;
[0016] FIG. 9 is a schematic illustration, generally similar to
FIG. 1, depicting a second embodiment of the vent valve assembly,
the vent valve being illustrated in a closed condition;
[0017] FIG. 10 is a schematic illustration, generally similar to
FIG. 2, depicting the vent valve of the embodiment of FIG. 9 in an
open condition;
[0018] FIG. 11 is a schematic illustration, generally similar to
FIG. 3, depicting the vent valve of the embodiment of FIGS. 9 and
10 in an open condition after a vehicle door has been closed;
[0019] FIG. 12 is a schematic illustration, generally similar to
FIG. 1, depicting an embodiment in which the vent valve is operated
between open and closed conditions by an actuator assembly having
electrical components;
[0020] FIG. 13 is a schematic illustration, generally similar to
FIG. 2, depicting the vent valve of the embodiment of FIG. 12 in an
open condition;
[0021] FIG. 14 is a schematic illustration, generally similar to
FIG. 3, depicting the vent valve of the embodiment of FIGS. 12 and
13 in an open condition after a door of a vehicle has been
closed;
[0022] FIG. 15 is a schematic illustration of an embodiment in
which a vent valve is urged to a closed condition by a magnet;
[0023] FIG. 16 is an exploded schematic illustration of the
embodiment of FIG. 15, further illustrating the relationship
between the vent valve, damper, closing spring, and magnet;
[0024] FIG. 17 is a schematic illustration of another embodiment
and depicting the relationship between a vent valve, damper and
closing spring;
[0025] FIG. 18 is an exploded schematic illustration of the
apparatus of FIG. 17;
[0026] FIG. 19 is a schematic illustration, generally similar to
FIG. 17, of another embodiment of the vent valve, damper and
closing spring; and
[0027] FIG. 20 is an exploded schematic illustration of the
apparatus illustrated in FIG. 19.
DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
General Description
[0028] A vent valve assembly 30, constructed in accordance with the
present invention, is illustrated schematically in FIG. 1 in a
closed condition. The vent valve assembly 30 includes a vent valve
32 and an actuator assembly 34. The vent valve assembly 30 is
disposed in a vehicle, indicated schematically at 36 in FIG. 1. The
vent valve 32 may be disposed at any desired location in the
vehicle 36.
[0029] The actuator assembly 34 effects operation of the vent valve
32 from the closed condition of FIG. 1 to the open condition of
FIG. 2 upon movement of a door 38 of the vehicle from the closed
position illustrated schematically in FIG. 1 to the open position
illustrated schematically in FIG. 2. The door 38 may be any desired
door of the vehicle. If desired, the vent valve 32 may be operated
to an open condition upon operation of any selected component of
the vehicle 36.
[0030] When the door 38 of the vehicle 36 is moved from the closed
position of FIG. 1 to the open position of FIG. 2, the door pivots
about a hinge 42 which interconnects the door and a body 44 of the
vehicle. As this occurs, the actuator assembly 34 effects operation
of the vent valve 32 from the closed condition of FIG. 1 to the
open condition of FIG. 2. When the vent valve 32 is in the closed
condition of FIG. 1, the vent valve blocks a vent opening 48. When
the vent valve 32 is in the open condition of FIG. 2, the vent
valve is ineffective to block the vent opening 48.
[0031] When the vent valve 32 is in the open condition of FIG. 2,
air can flow between the interior of a passenger compartment 52 of
the vehicle 36 and the atmosphere. If desired, the air may flow
from the passenger compartment 52 and/or trunk compartment 54 to
atmosphere around the outside of the vehicle 36. Since air can pass
freely through the vent opening 48 when the vent valve 32 is in the
open condition of FIG. 2, the air pressure in the interior 52 of
the vehicle tends to equal the air pressure in the trunk
compartment 54 and/or atmosphere around the vehicle.
[0032] When the vehicle door 38 is moved from the open position of
FIG. 2 to the closed position of FIG. 3, the door pivots about the
hinge 42. This pivotal movement tends to induce a flow of air into
the passenger compartment 52 of the vehicle 36. In the absence of
the vent valve assembly 30, the fluid pressure, that is, air
pressure, in the passenger compartment 52 of a vehicle tends to
increase as the vehicle door 38 is closed. However, when the vent
valve 32 is in the open condition illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 3, air
can flow from the passenger compartment 52 of the vehicle through
the vent opening 48, in the manner indicated schematically by an
arrow 58 in FIG. 3.
[0033] The flow of air from the passenger compartment 52 of the
vehicle 36 through the vent opening 48 to atmosphere prevents any
significant increase in the fluid air pressure within the passenger
compartment as the door 38 closes. This enables the door 38 to be
easily and quietly closed. Since the vent valve 32 moves to and is
maintained in the open condition of FIGS. 2 and 3 prior to and
shortly after closing of the door 38, the vent valve assembly 30 is
effective to prevent the occurrence of a significant increase in
the fluid pressure in the passenger compartment 52 of the vehicle
as the door 38 is closed. A short time after the door 38 has
closed, the vent valve 32 moves from the open condition of FIGS. 2
and 3 back to the closed condition of FIG. 1.
Actuator Assembly
[0034] The actuator assembly 34 includes a door position sensor
assembly 62 (FIGS. 1-3, 6 and 7). The door position sensor assembly
62 is actuated upon movement of the door 38 between its closed
position (FIG. 1) and its open position (FIG. 2). The door position
sensor assembly 62 is connected with the vent valve 32 (FIGS. 1-4)
by a force transmitting member 64. The illustrated force
transmitting member 64 is a flexible wire or cable which is
enclosed by a flexible sheath 66. The force transmitting member 64
and sheath 66 may be referred to as a Bowden cable. However, it
should be understood that the force transmitting member 64 may have
a different construction if desired.
[0035] The left (as viewed in FIGS. 1-3) end portion of the force
transmitting member 64 is connected with a plunger 72 in the door
position sensor assembly 62. The plunger 72 has a cylindrical end
or nose section 74 which engages the door 38 when the door is in
the closed condition of FIG. 1. The end section 74 is pressed
against the door 38 by a relatively strong biasing spring 78. The
biasing spring 78 applies force against a cylindrical head end
portion 82 of the plunger 72.
[0036] When the door 38 is in the closed position illustrated in
FIG. 1, the plunger 72 is maintained in a retracted condition and
the biasing spring is compressed between the head end portion 82 of
the plunger 72 and a housing 84 which is connected to the vehicle
body 44. When the door 38 is pivoted from the closed position of
FIG. 1 to the open position of FIG. 2, the plunger 72 is released
for movement under the influence of the biasing spring 78. The
biasing spring 78 is effective to move the plunger 72 toward the
door 38, that is, in a downward direction (as viewed in FIGS. 1 and
2).
[0037] As the door 38 opens, force is transmitted from the biasing
spring 78 through the head end portion 82 of the plunger 72 to the
force transmitting member 64. The force is transmitted through the
force transmitting member 64 to the vent valve 32. The force
transmitted through the force transmitting member 64 effects
pivotal movement of the vent valve 32 in a counterclockwise
direction (as viewed in FIG. 1) about a hinge 90 (FIGS. 1 and 4).
As this occurs, the vent valve 32 moves to an open condition and
connects the passenger compartment 52 in fluid communication with
the trunk compartment 54 and/or environment around the vehicle
through the vent opening 48.
[0038] The force transmitting member 64 is connected with the vent
valve 32 by a slide connection 94 which allows relative movement to
occur between the force transmitting member and vent valve 32.
Thus, the force transmitting member 64 is movable relative to the
vent valve 32 from the position illustrated schematically in FIG. 2
to the position illustrated schematically in FIG. 3. This relative
movement enables the vent valve 32 to remain in the open condition
after the door 38 has moved to its closed condition (FIG. 3).
[0039] The slide connection 94 has a construction which enables the
force transmitting member 64 to move relative to the vent valve 32
(FIG. 4). The force transmitting member 64 has a head end section
100 which is attached to an end of a cable or wire 102 (FIG. 8).
The generally cylindrical head end section 100 is received in a
slot 104 (FIGS. 1-4) connected with the vent valve 32. The slot 104
has a generally rectangular cross sectional configuration (FIG. 4)
in which the head end section 100 is received. The head end section
100 can slide along a longitudinal axis of the slot 104.
[0040] When the door 38 is in the open condition of FIG. 2 and the
vent valve 32 is in the open condition, the head end section 100 of
the force transmitting member 64 is disposed in engagement with a
left end portion (as viewed in FIGS. 1 and 2) of the slot 104. When
the vehicle door 38 is operated from the open position of FIG. 2 to
the closed position of FIG. 3, the head end section 100 of the
force transmitting member 64 is moved along the slot toward an open
end 106 of the slot (FIG. 3). This allows the force transmitting
member to be moved relative to the vent valve 32 while the vent
valve remains in the open condition.
Closing Spring
[0041] A closing spring 112 (FIG. 4) is disposed at the hinge 90
between the vent valve 32 and a stationary base 114. The vent valve
32 is pivotally mounted on the base 114 at the hinge 90. The
closing spring 112 is disposed in a coaxial relationship with the
hinge 90. The closing spring 112 is weaker than the biasing spring
78 (FIGS. 1 and 2). This enables the biasing spring 78 to provide
force which is effective to overcome the closing spring 112 and
pivot the vent valve 32 when the vehicle door 38 opens (FIG.
2).
[0042] The closing spring 112 has an inner portion or tab 118 (FIG.
8) which engages a slot in tab 120. The tab 120 is fixedly
connected with the base 114 and holds the inner portion or tab 118
of the closing spring 112 against rotational movement relative to
the base. In addition, the closing spring 112 has an outer portion
124 which extends around and is coaxial with the inner portion 118.
The outer portion 124 has a projection or tab 126 which engages the
vent valve 32. The tab 126 holds the outer portion 124 against
rotation relative to the vent valve 32.
[0043] The inner portion 118 and outer portion 124 of the closing
spring are interconnected by a resiliently deflectable spring which
is enclosed by the outer portion 124. The resiliently deflectable
spring applies a force to the outer portion 124 urging the vent
valve 32 toward the closed position illustrated in FIG. 4. Upon
pivotal movement of the vent valve 32 from the closed position of
FIGS. 1 and 4 toward the open position of FIG. 2, under the
influence of force transmitted through the force transmitting
member 64 to the vent valve 32, the outer portion 124 (FIG. 8) of
the closing spring 112 is rotated relative to the inner portion 118
of the closing spring. This results in the spring which
interconnects the inner portion 118 and outer portion 124 of the
closing spring 112 being resiliently deflected.
[0044] The closing spring 112 is weaker than the biasing spring 78
(FIG. 1) in the door position sensor assembly 62. Therefore, when
the vehicle door 38 is moved to the open position of FIG. 2, the
biasing spring 78 applies sufficient force to the force
transmitting member 64 to pivot the vent valve 32 from the closed
condition of FIG. 1 to the open condition of FIG. 2 against the
influence of the closing spring 112 (FIG. 8). When the door 38
(FIGS. 1-3) of the vehicle is moved from the open position of FIG.
2 to the closed position of FIG. 3 and the force transmitting
member 64 is moved relative to the vent valve 32, the vent valve is
released for pivotal movement about the hinge 90 under the
influence of the closing spring 112.
Friction Damper
[0045] A friction damper 132 (FIGS. 4 and 8) is provided to delay
movement of the vent valve 32 from the open condition of FIG. 2 to
the closed condition of FIG. 1. This results in the vent valve
moving relatively slowly from the open condition of FIG. 2, through
the partially closed condition of FIG. 3 to the closed condition of
FIG. 1 under the influence of the closing spring 112 after the
vehicle door 38 has moved from the open position of FIG. 2 to the
closed position of FIG. 3. By having the vent valve 32 move
relatively slowly from the open condition to the closed condition,
any tendency for the air pressure in the passenger compartment 52
of the vehicle to increase as the door 38 is closed is mitigated by
a flow of air through the vent opening 48, in the manner indicated
by the arrow 58 in FIG. 3.
[0046] The resistance provided by the friction damper 132 to
closing of the vent valve 32 is eventually overcome by the closing
spring 112. When this occurs, the vent valve 32 moves to the closed
condition of FIG. 1 with the vehicle door 38 closed. However, the
vent valve 32 remains in a partially open condition, such as is
shown in FIG. 3, for a sufficient length of time to prevent a
significant increase in the air pressure in the passenger
compartment 52 of the vehicle 36.
[0047] The friction damper 132 (FIG. 8) has an inner portion 136
which is stationary relative to the base 114. The inner portion 136
engages a slot in tab 138 which is fixedly connected to the base
114. The slot in tab 138 holds the inner portion 136 of the damper
132 against movement relative to the base 114.
[0048] In addition, the friction damper 132 has an outer portion
140 which moves relative to the base 114 with the vent valve 32.
The outer portion 140 of the friction damper 132 has a tab 142
which engages the vent valve 32. The tab 142 holds the outer
portion 140 against rotational movement relative to the vent valve
32. The friction damper 132 is disposed in a coaxial relationship
with the closing spring 112 and hinge 90, in the manner illustrated
schematically in FIG. 4.
[0049] The inner portion 136 of the friction damper 132 has a
cylindrical outer side surface which is within a cylindrical inner
side surface on the outer portion 140 of the friction damper. An
O-ring resists relative rotation between the inner and outer
portions 136 and 140 of the friction damper. However, the friction
force provided by the O-ring between the inner and outer portions
136 and 140 of the friction damper 132 is insufficient to hold the
vent valve 32 against relatively slow rotational movement from the
open condition of FIG. 2 to the closed condition of FIG. 1 under
the influence of the closing spring 112.
[0050] When the vehicle door 38 is moved from the open position of
FIG. 2 to the closed position of FIG. 1, the plunger 72 compresses
the biasing spring 78. As this occurs, the force transmitting
member 64 moves the head end section 100 along the slot 104 from
the position shown in FIG. 2 through the position shown in FIG. 3.
This releases the vent valve 32 for pivotal movement toward the
closed condition shown in FIG. 1.
[0051] The vent valve 32 is then slowly closed by the closing
spring 112 against the influence of the friction damper 132. This
results in the vent valve 32 being in the partially open condition,
illustrated schematically in FIG. 3, for a short period of time
after the door 38 of the vehicle has been moved to its closed
position. The vent valve 32 remains in a partially open condition,
while the closing spring 112 overcomes the influence of the
friction damper 132, for a sufficient length of time to enable air
to flow from the passenger compartment 52 of the vehicle 36 through
the vent opening 48, in the manner illustrated schematically by the
arrow 58 in FIG. 3, without a significant increase in the air
pressure in the interior of the vehicle.
[0052] Although the friction damper 132 has a generally cylindrical
configuration, it is contemplated that the friction damper 132
could be constructed in a different manner if desired. For example,
the friction damper 132 may be formed by a pair of flat washers
which are pressed against each other and which slide relative to
each other during movement of the vent valve 32 from the open
position to the closed position.
[0053] The closing spring 112 is effective to close the vent valve
against the influence of the friction damper 132 after the vehicle
door 38 has been moved to the closed position of FIG. 1. The
relatively slow closing of the vent valve 32 minimizes any tendency
for the vent valve to rebound and/or vibrate as it is closed. To
further prevent rebounding and/or vibration of the vent valve 32 as
it is closed, a cushion or gasket 148 (FIG. 8) is provided around
the periphery of the vent opening 48. The cushion 148 is engaged by
a vent valve 32 and cushions closing movement of the vent
valve.
[0054] When the vent valve 32 is in the closed condition of FIG. 1,
the vent valve blocks transmission of air and noise through the
vent opening 48. The blockage of the transmission of air and noise
through the vent valve 32 is promoted by having the cushion 148
around the periphery of the vent opening 48 and by having the vent
valve 32 pressed firmly against the cushion 148 by the closing
spring 112. The vent valve 32 has a thickness which is sufficient
to impede the transmission of noise through the vent valve.
[0055] In one specific embodiment of the invention, the vent valve
32 had a thickness of approximately 1.5 mm. Of course, the vent
valve 32 may be formed with either a greater or lesser thickness.
In addition, noise insulation material may be provided on the side
of the vent valve 32 toward the opening 48 and/or the side of the
vent valve away from the opening.
Embodiment of FIGS. 9-11
[0056] In the embodiment of the invention illustrated in FIGS. 1-8,
the actuator assembly 34 includes a flexible force transmitting
member 64. In the embodiment of the invention illustrated in FIGS.
9-11, the actuator assembly 34 includes a rigid force transmitting
member. Since the embodiment of the invention illustrated in FIGS.
9-11 is generally similar to the embodiment of the invention
illustrated in FIGS. 1-8, similar numerals will be utilized to
designate similar components, the suffix letter "a" being
associated with the numerals of FIGS. 9-11.
[0057] In the embodiment of the invention illustrated in FIGS.
9-11, the vent valve assembly 32a includes an actuator assembly 34a
having a rigid force transmitting member 64a which transmits force
between a biasing spring 78a and a vent valve 32a. A slide
connection 94a interconnects the force transmitting member 64a and
the vent valve 32a. The force transmitting member 64a performs the
functions of both the plunger 72 and force transmitting member 64
in the embodiment of the invention illustrated in FIGS. 1-3.
[0058] The force transmitting member 64a has a plunger portion 72a
which forms part of a door position sensor assembly 62a. The force
transmitting member 64a includes a head end section 100a pivotally
connected to the plunger portion 72a. The head end section 100a is
connected with the vent valve 32a by a slide connection 94a which
allows relative movement to occur between the force transmitting
member 64a and vent valve 32a. The head end section 100a is
received in a slot 104a of the vent valve 32a. The head end section
100a can slide along a longitudinal axis of the slot 104a. Thus,
the force transmitting member 64a is movable relative to the vent
valve 32a. This relative movement enables the vent valve 32a to
remain in the open condition after the door 38a has moved to its
closed condition.
[0059] The plunger portion 72a of the force transmitting member 64a
engages a flange 152 connected with the vehicle door 38a. When the
vehicle door 38a is in the closed position of FIG. 9, the flange
152 holds the plunger portion 72a of the force transmitting member
64a in a retracted position. When the force transmitting member 64a
is in the retracted position (FIG. 9), a head end portion 82a of
the plunger portion 72a holds a biasing spring 78a in a compressed
condition. At this time, a closing spring, corresponding to the
closing spring 112 of FIGS. 4 and 8, holds the vent valve 32a in
the closed condition.
[0060] When the door 38a is moved to the open position (FIG. 10),
the flange 152 moves away from the plunger portion 72a of the force
transmitting member 64a. As this occurs, the biasing spring 78a
moves the force transmitting member 64a toward the left (as viewed
in FIG. 9) to move the vent valve 32a to the open condition of FIG.
10. When the door 38a is closed (FIG. 11), the force transmitting
member moves toward the right (as viewed in FIGS. 10 and 11) to
release the vent valve 32a for movement to the closed condition. A
friction damper, corresponding to the friction damper 132 of FIGS.
4 and 8, delays movement of the vent valve 32a to the closed
condition.
Embodiment of FIGS. 12-14
[0061] In the embodiments of the invention illustrated in FIGS.
1-11, a mechanical actuator assembly is utilized in association
with a door position sensor assembly and vent valve. In the
embodiment of the invention illustrated in FIGS. 12-14, an actuator
having electrical components is utilized in association with the
door position sensor assembly and vent valve. Since the embodiment
of the invention illustrated in FIGS. 12-14 is generally similar to
the embodiments of the invention illustrated in FIGS. 1-11, similar
numerals will be utilized to designate similar components, the
suffix letter "b" being associated with the numerals of FIGS. 12-14
to avoid confusion.
[0062] The vent valve assembly 30b includes a vent valve 32b which
is illustrated in a closed condition in FIG. 12 and an open
condition in FIG. 13. An actuator assembly 34b connects the vent
valve 32b with a door position sensor assembly 62b. The door
position sensor assembly 62b is operated in response to movement of
the door 38b from the closed position of FIG. 12 to the open
position of FIG. 13. Upon movement of the door 38b from the closed
position of FIG. 12 to the open position of FIG. 13, the actuator
assembly 34b effects operation of the vent valve 32b from the
closed condition of FIG. 12 to the open condition of FIG. 13.
[0063] Upon subsequent movement of the door 38b to the closed
position of FIG. 14, the actuator assembly 34b releases of the vent
valve 32b for movement from the fully open condition of FIG. 13
through the partially open condition of FIG. 14 to the closed
condition of FIG. 12. A closing spring, corresponding to the
closing spring 112 of FIGS. 4 and 8, is effective to cause movement
of the vent valve 32b from the open condition of FIG. 13 through
the partially open condition of FIG. 14 to the closed condition of
FIG. 12. A friction damper, corresponding to the friction damper
132 of FIGS. 4 and 8, is provided in association with the vent
valve 32b and hinge 90b in the same manner as was previously
described in conjunction with the friction damper 132 of FIGS. 4
and 8. The friction damper delays operation of the vent valve 32b
to the closed condition in the same manner as explained in
conjunction with the embodiment of FIGS. 1-8.
[0064] In the embodiment of the invention illustrated in FIGS.
12-14, the actuator assembly 34b includes a solenoid 160 which is
connected with the vent valve 32b by a slide connection 94b. When
the vehicle door 38b is operated from the closed position of FIG.
12 to the open position of FIG. 13, the plunger 72b is moved
downward (as viewed in FIGS. 12 and 13) by the biasing spring 78b.
As this occurs, a switch 162 is operated from the open condition of
FIG. 12 to the closed condition of FIG. 13. Closing the switch 162
completes a circuit to effect energization of the solenoid 160.
[0065] Energization of the solenoid 160 pulls an armature or force
transmitting member 166 toward the left (as viewed in FIG. 12).
This movement of the armature 166 transmits force through the slide
connection 94b to the vent valve 32b and pivots the vent valve in a
counterclockwise direction (as viewed in FIG. 12) about the hinge
90b. Pivotal movement of the vent valve 32b from the closed
condition of FIG. 12 to the open condition of FIG. 13 in response
to energization of the solenoid 160 and movement of the armature
166 is effective to open the vent opening 48b. Opening the vent
opening 48b connects the passenger compartment 52b of the vehicle
36b in fluid communication with the trunk compartment and/or
atmosphere 54b around the vehicle.
[0066] When the door 38b is subsequently moved from the open
position of FIG. 13 back to the closed position of FIG. 14, the
plunger 72b is retracted against the influence of the biasing
spring 78b and the switch 162 is operated from the closed condition
of FIG. 13 to the open condition of FIG. 14. Opening the switch 162
effects the deenergization of the solenoid 160. Deenergization of
the solenoid 160 results in the armature 166 moving from the
retracted position of FIG. 13 to the extended position of FIG. 14
due to the force applied by a closing spring that urges the vent
valve 32b toward the closed condition. The head end section 100b
moves along the slot 104b as the vent valve 32b moves to the closed
condition. The armature 166 may be spring biased to move from the
retracted position to the extended position.
[0067] The armature or force transmitting member 166 has a head end
section 100b pivotally connected to the armature. The head end
section 100b is connected with the vent valve 32b by the slide
connection 94b which allows relative movement to occur between the
armature 166 and vent valve 32b. The head end section 100b is
received in a slot 104b of the vent valve 32b. The head end section
100b can slide along a longitudinal axis of the slot 104b. Thus,
the force transmitting member 166 is movable relative to the vent
valve 32b. This relative movement enables the vent valve 32b to
remain in the open condition after the door 38b has moved to its
closed condition.
[0068] A closing spring, corresponding to the closing spring 112 of
FIG. 8, is effective to urge the vent valve 32b toward the closed
condition. However, movement of the vent valve 32b toward the
closed condition is delayed by a friction damper, corresponding to
the friction damper 132 of FIGS. 4 and 8. Although the closing
spring, corresponding to the closing spring 112 of FIGS. 4 and 8,
is eventually effective to close the vent valve 32b against the
influence of the friction damper, the vent valve 32b remains in a
partially open condition long enough to prevent any significant
rise in the pressure in the passenger compartment 52b of the
vehicle 36b. The construction and mode of operation of the closing
spring and friction damper connected with the vent valve 32b is the
same as the construction and mode of operation of the closing
spring 112 and friction damper 132 of the embodiment of the
invention illustrated in FIGS. 1-8.
Embodiment of FIGS. 15 and 16
[0069] In the embodiment of the invention illustrated in FIGS.
1-14, the vent valve 32 is held in a closed condition under the
influence of a closing spring, corresponding to the closing spring
112 of FIGS. 4 and 8. In the embodiment of the invention
illustrated in FIGS. 15 and 16, the vent valve is held in the
closed condition under the influence of the closing spring and a
magnet. Since the embodiment of the invention illustrated in FIGS.
15 and 16 is generally similar to the embodiments of the invention
illustrated in FIGS. 1-14, similar numerals will be utilized to
designate similar components, the suffix letter "c" being
associated with the numerals with the FIGS. 15 and 16.
[0070] A vent valve assembly 30c includes a vent valve 32c. The
vent valve 32c is connected with a door position sensor assembly,
corresponding to the door position sensor assembly 62 of FIGS. 1-3
by an actuator assembly, corresponding to the actuator assembly 34
of FIGS. 1-3. It should be understood that although the door
position sensor assembly and actuator assembly 34 have not been
illustrated in FIG. 15, the door position sensor assembly and
actuator assembly may have any one of the constructions illustrated
in FIGS. 1-14. It should also be understood that although a
connection, corresponding to the slide connection 94 of FIGS. 1-3,
has not been shown in association with the vent valve 32c, a
connection corresponding to the slide connection 94 of FIGS. 1-3 is
utilized to connect an actuator assembly with the vent valve
assembly 32c. In addition, a closing spring 112c and friction
damper 132c are provided in association with the vent valve 32c in
the same manner as previously discussed in connection with the
embodiment of the invention illustrated in FIGS. 1-8.
[0071] In accordance with a feature of this embodiment of the
invention, a magnet 172 is mounted on the base 114c (FIG. 16)
adjacent to the vent opening 48c. The magnet 172 cooperates with a
piece 174 (FIG. 15) of magnetizable metal mounted on the vent valve
32c. The magnet 172 attracts the magnetizable metal (steel) on the
vent valve 32c to hold the vent valve in the closed condition
illustrated in FIG. 15.
[0072] The vent valve assembly 30c may include or not include a
slide connection, the magnet 172, the friction damper 132c, the
closing spring 112c and/or the piece 174. Accordingly, the vent
valve assembly 30c may have a modular design.
Embodiment of FIGS. 17 and 18
[0073] In the embodiments of the invention illustrated in FIGS.
1-16, closing springs 112 and friction dampers 132, having the
construction illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 8, are utilized in
association with the vent valves 32. In the embodiment of the
invention illustrated in FIGS. 17 and 18, a closing spring and
friction damper having a different construction are utilized in
association with the vent valve. Since the embodiment of the
invention illustrated in FIGS. 17 and 18 is generally similar to
the embodiments of the invention illustrated in FIGS. 1-16, similar
numerals will be utilized to designate similar components, the
suffix letter "d" being associated with the numerals of FIGS. 17
and 18 to avoid confusion.
[0074] A vent valve assembly 30d is utilized to prevent formation
of excessive air pressure in the passenger compartment of a
vehicle, corresponding to the vehicle 36 of FIGS. 1-3. The vent
valve assembly 30d is connected with a door position sensor
assembly, corresponding to the door position sensor assembly 62 of
FIGS. 1-3, by an actuator assembly, corresponding to the actuator
assembly 34 of FIGS. 1-3. Although only the vent valve 32d and base
114d have been illustrated schematically in FIG. 17, it should be
understood that the vent valve 32d is connected with a door
position sensor having a construction similar to the construction
of a door position sensor 62 of FIGS. 1-3 by an actuator assembly
having a construction similar to the construction of the actuator
assembly 34 of FIGS. 1-3. It should also be understood that a slide
connection having a construction similar to the construction of the
slide connection 94 of FIGS. 1-3 is utilized to connect the
actuator assembly with the vent valve 32d of FIG. 17. The vent
valve 32d of FIG. 17 includes a flat valve member 182 (FIG. 18)
which is pivotally mounted on the base 114d at a hinge 90d (FIG.
17).
[0075] In the embodiment of the invention illustrated in FIGS. 17
and 18, the closing spring is formed by a one piece spring 186
mounted on a shaft 188 of the valve member 182 (FIG. 18). The
closing spring 186 has an outwardly extending arm section 192 which
engages a recess 194 in the valve member 182 in the manner
illustrated schematically in FIG. 17. In addition, the spring 186
has an arm section 196 which engages the base 114d (FIG. 17). The
two arm sections 194 and 196 cooperate with the valve member 182
and base 114d to hold the vent valve 32d in the closed condition of
FIG. 17. The closing spring 186 cooperates with the vent valve 32d
to perform the same functions as the closing spring 112 of FIGS. 4
and 8.
[0076] Upon opening of a vehicle door, similar to the door 38 of
FIG. 1, a door position sensor assembly effects operation of an
actuator assembly to effect pivotal movement of the valve member
182 about a central axis of the shaft 188 at the hinge 90. When the
vehicle door moves back to the closed position, in the manner
illustrated schematically in FIG. 3, the closing spring 186 FIGS.
17 and 18 is effective to pivot the shaft 188 at the hinge 90d.
However, pivotal movement of the shaft 188 and valve member 182 are
resisted by a soft damper material 200 against which the shaft 188
is pressed. Friction force between the damper material 200 and the
shaft 188 functions as a friction damper to delay movement of the
valve member 182 under the influence of the closing spring 186.
[0077] In the embodiments of the invention illustrated in FIGS.
1-18, friction dampers have been utilized to delay movement of the
vent valve to the closed condition after closing of a vehicle door.
However, it is contemplated that other known types of dampers may
be utilized if desired. For example, a pneumatic damper may be
utilized. As another example, a hydraulic damper may be
utilized.
[0078] The vent valve assembly 30d may include or not include a
door position sensor assembly, spring 186, and/or the soft damper
material 200. Accordingly, the vent valve assembly 30d may have a
modular design.
Embodiment of FIGS. 19 and 20
[0079] In the embodiments of the invention illustrated in FIGS.
1-16, closing springs 112 and friction dampers 132 are associated
with the vent valve 32 to urge the vent valve toward the closed
condition and to delay movement of the vent valve to its closed
condition. In the embodiment of the invention illustrated in FIGS.
19 and 20 a closing spring and damper having a different
construction are illustrated. Since the embodiment of the invention
illustrated in FIGS. 19 and 20 is generally similar to the
embodiments of the invention illustrated in FIGS. 1-18, similar
numerals will be utilized to designate similar components, the
suffix letter "e" being associated with the numerals of FIGS. 19
and 20 to avoid confusion.
[0080] A vent valve assembly 30e includes a vent valve 32e. The
vent valve 32e is connected with a door position sensor assembly,
corresponding to the door position sensor assembly 62 of FIGS. 1-3,
by an actuator assembly, corresponding to the actuator assembly 34.
The actuator assembly is connected with the vent valve 32e by a
slide connection, corresponding to the slide connection 94 of FIGS.
1-3.
[0081] The vent valve 32e (FIG. 20) includes a valve member 182e
which is integrally formed as one piece with a shaft 188e. A
closing spring, corresponding to the closing spring 112 of FIGS. 4
and 8 is formed by a metal leaf spring 210. The leaf spring 210 may
be formed of a material other than metal. For example, the leaf
spring 210 may be formed of a polymeric material.
[0082] The one piece leaf spring 210 includes a base section 212
and a pair of arm sections 214 and 216. The base section 212 (FIG.
20) is positioned in a recess 220 formed in the valve member 182e.
A pair of pins or pegs 224 and 226 extend through openings 228 and
230 (FIG. 20) formed in the base section 212 of the leaf spring
210. The pins 224 and 226 cooperate with the openings 228 and 230
to position the leaf spring in the recess 220. The arm sections 214
and 216 extend under the shaft 188e and engage ramps 234 and 236
(FIG. 20) formed on the base 114e.
[0083] After the leaf spring 210 has been positioned in the recess
220 in the valve member 182e, the shaft 188e is snapped into
support sections 240 and 242 on the base 114e. End portions of the
shaft 188e are received in openings 244 and 246 formed in the
support sections 240 and 242 (FIG. 20). The support sections 240
and 242 hold the shaft 188e against sideways movement relative to
the base 114e while permitting the shaft to rotate relative to the
base.
[0084] As the shaft 188e is snapped into the openings 244 and 246,
the shaft is pressed firmly against a friction damper section 250.
The friction damper section 250 is formed of a material which has a
higher coefficient of friction than the surface of the shaft 188e
and which retards rotation of the shaft relative to the base 114e.
The friction damper section 250 cooperates with the shaft 188e to
delay closing of the vent valve 32e in the same manner as in which
the friction damper 132 delays closing of the vent valve 32 (FIGS.
4 and 8).
[0085] The vent valve 32e is connected with a door position sensor
assembly, corresponding to the door position sensor assembly 62 of
FIGS. 1-3, by an actuator assembly, corresponding to the actuator
assembly 34 of FIGS. 1-3. The actuator assembly is connected with
the vent valve 32e by a slide connection, corresponding to the
slide connection 94 of FIGS. 1-3.
[0086] The vent valve assembly 30e may include or not include a
door position sensor assembly, the leaf spring 210, and/or the soft
material of the friction damper section 250. Accordingly, the vent
valve assembly 30e may have a modular design.
[0087] From the above description of the invention, those skilled
in the art will perceive improvements, changes and modifications.
For example, the vent valve may have a configuration other than the
illustrated configuration. Such improvements, changes and
modifications within the skill of the art are intended to be
covered by the appended claims.
* * * * *